Responsible gambling
Think of gambling as something you pay for, like a cinema ticket or a stadium seat. Every casino game has a house edge, so over months the operator comes out ahead. If you keep that in mind, the rest is easier.
Set your rules first
- Pick a monthly amount from what's left after rent, school fees, food and fare.
- Never fund deposits with Fuliza, M-Shwari, KCB M-Pesa or money borrowed from friends.
- Give each session a time limit, and set a phone alarm if it helps.
- Don't chase losses. Bigger stakes to win it back usually means losing more.
- Skip playing when you're stressed, angry, tired or have been drinking.
Tools in your casino account
| Tool | What it does | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit limit | Caps deposits per day, week or month | Profile, Responsible gaming |
| Reality check | Reminds you how long you've been playing | Profile settings |
| Time-out | Locks the account for a short period | Profile or live chat |
| Self-exclusion | Closes the account for 6 months or more | Email [email protected] |
Signs it's becoming a problem
- You keep spending more than you planned.
- You get restless or irritable when you try to stop.
- You hide your betting from family or lie about amounts.
- It's hurting your work, studies or relationships.
- You see gambling as the way out of money trouble.
Help in Kenya
- The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) publishes guidance on responsible gambling.
- Gamblers Anonymous runs free peer meetings online and in person.
- Kenya Red Cross runs a free support line on 1199.
- Gamban and BetBlocker are free apps that block gambling sites on your phone.
The legal age for gambling in Kenya is 18. If children use your phone, lock your accounts with a PIN or fingerprint, or install a blocking app.